A diagnosis often cannot be arrived at immediately, especially in complicated cases. After the information is gathered, it must be sifted through and considered thoroughly. I consider my role as similar to a detective putting the pieces of a case together. Subtle distinctions can be important.

After this intake, a follow-up visit will be scheduled to present a report of findings. This follow-up takes up to half an hour and is usually incorporated into the next treatment session. The aim of the report of findings is not only to discuss the progression of treatment, but to give you a solid understanding of your own condition, so that you have a clear sense of how you got to where you are, and how to get where you want to go—healthy and thriving.

As a general rule, I do this type of diagnosis on all patients, except those with very acute or localized problems, or if time is short for some reason. It is both more thorough and more time-consuming. I do tend to work a bit more slowly than others, but I believe that what I sacrifice in speed, I regain in accuracy and effectiveness.